HBO's Harry Potter Reboot: Confirmed Cast and Characters Revealed

The HBO Harry Potter TV series has reached an exciting milestone with the announcement of the first six cast members. While fans eagerly await news on who will portray iconic characters like Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, and Lord Voldemort, we now have the scoop on who will be bringing to life Albus Dumbledore, Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and more. Dive in to learn about the confirmed cast and the roles yet to be filled.

Confirmed Cast:

John Lithgow as Albus Dumbledore

John Lithgow, a six-time Emmy and two-time Tony Award winner, will portray Albus Dumbledore, the revered headmaster of Hogwarts. Known for his wisdom and power, Dumbledore plays a pivotal role as a mentor to Harry Potter and has a rich backstory involving his tragic relationship with Gellert Grindelwald. Lithgow's impressive resume includes roles in "3rd Rock From the Sun," "Dexter," "The Crown," "Shrek," and many more.

Who played Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter films? Richard Harris in "Sorcerer’s Stone" and "Chamber of Secrets," and Michael Gambon in the subsequent films; Toby Regbo and Jude Law have also portrayed younger versions of the character.

Janet McTeer as Minerva McGonagall

Tony Award and Golden Globe winner Janet McTeer will embody Professor Minerva McGonagall, a cherished figure at Hogwarts as the head of Gryffindor and deputy headmistress. She's one of the first characters introduced in "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone," assisting Dumbledore in delivering Harry to the Dursleys. McTeer's notable works include "Me Before You," "The Menu," "Ozark," and more.

Who played Minerva McGonagall in the Harry Potter films? Dame Maggie Smith in the original series and Fiona Glascott in the "Fantastic Beasts" films.

Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape

Emmy-nominated actor Paapa Essiedu steps into the role of Severus Snape, the enigmatic Potions professor and head of Slytherin. His complex history with Harry and his parents, James and Lily, makes him a crucial figure in the series. Essiedu's previous credits include "I May Destroy You," "Black Mirror," and "Gangs of London."

Who played Severus Snape in the Harry Potter films? Alan Rickman, with Alec Hopkins and Benedict Clarke portraying younger versions.

Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid

Nick Frost will bring to life Rubeus Hagrid, the beloved half-giant and gamekeeper at Hogwarts. Known for rescuing Harry from the Dursleys and becoming one of his closest friends, Hagrid's warmth and loyalty are iconic. Frost has starred in comedies like "Shaun of the Dead," "Hot Fuzz," and "The World’s End."

Who played Rubeus Hagrid in the Harry Potter films? Robbie Coltrane, with Martin Bayfield as the young Hagrid.

Luke Thallon as Quirinus Quirrell

Luke Thallon takes on the role of Quirinus Quirrell, the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor in Harry's first year at Hogwarts. As a newcomer to acting, Thallon has appeared in "The Favourite" and "Present Laughter."

Who played Quirinus Quirrell in the Harry Potter films? Ian Hart.

Paul Whitehouse as Argus Filch

BAFTA winner Paul Whitehouse will portray Argus Filch, the Hogwarts caretaker often seen with his cat, Mrs. Norris. Whitehouse is known for "The Fast Show," "Harry & Paul," and films like "The Death of Stalin" and "Alice in Wonderland."

Who played Argus Filch in the Harry Potter films? David Bradley.

Major Characters Yet to Be Cast:

The anticipation continues for casting announcements of key characters such as Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, Hermione Granger, Lord Voldemort, and many others including Draco Malfoy, Sirius Black, and the Weasley family. The list of characters still to be cast is extensive, promising an exciting journey ahead for fans of the series.

For more insights, explore our ranking of the 25 best Harry Potter characters from the movies and books, learn about the producing duo leading the charge on HBO’s reboot, and discover our guide to reading your way through the Harry Potter books.